Constipation is a very common health problem, especially among middle‑aged and older adults. Many people experience it from time to time, and some struggle with it regularly.
When simple lifestyle changes such as eating more fiber, drinking enough water, or exercising do not help, people often turn to laxatives. These medicines are widely available at pharmacies and supermarkets, and they are commonly used to help move stool through the digestive system and relieve discomfort.
For many years, laxatives have been considered a safe short‑term solution for constipation. However, scientists are now starting to explore whether using these medicines often for a long period of time could have unexpected effects on other parts of the body.
A new study led by researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences has raised questions about whether frequent use of laxatives might be linked to a higher risk of developing dementia later in life.
The research was published in the medical journal Neurology and analyzed health data from a very large group of people. The scientists used information from the UK Biobank, a major long‑term health research project in the United Kingdom that tracks the health of hundreds of thousands of volunteers.
The project collects medical information, lifestyle details, and genetic data to help researchers understand how diseases develop over time.
In this study, the researchers examined records from 502,229 adults who did not have dementia when the study began. Among these participants, 18,235 people—about 3.6 percent—reported that they regularly used over‑the‑counter laxatives. In this study, “regular use” meant that a person took laxatives most days of the week during the month before joining the research project.
The scientists then followed these participants for an average of about ten years to see who later developed dementia. Dementia is a condition that affects memory, thinking, and the ability to carry out daily activities.
It is more common in older adults and includes diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. As populations around the world age, dementia has become a major public health concern.
When the researchers compared the two groups, they found a clear difference. About 1.3 percent of people who regularly used laxatives developed dementia during the study period. In comparison, only about 0.4 percent of people who did not regularly use laxatives developed dementia.
After taking into account many other factors that could influence dementia risk—such as age, sex, education level, existing health conditions, medications, and family history—the researchers found that people who used laxatives regularly had about a 51 percent higher risk of developing dementia than those who did not.
The study also looked at different types of laxatives. One group called osmotic laxatives appeared to be linked to an even higher risk.
These medicines work by pulling water into the colon, which softens the stool and makes it easier to pass. While this method can be effective for treating constipation, doctors usually do not recommend long‑term use unless it is medically necessary.
The study did not prove that laxatives directly cause dementia. Instead, it showed that there is a connection between frequent laxative use and a higher chance of developing the condition. More research will be needed to understand whether laxatives themselves play a role or whether other factors are involved.
One possible explanation involves the gut microbiome. The gut microbiome refers to the large community of bacteria and other microorganisms that live in our digestive system. These microbes help break down food, support the immune system, and even communicate with the brain through what scientists call the gut‑brain connection.
Researchers believe that regular use of laxatives might change the balance of bacteria in the gut. If this balance is disrupted, it could interfere with the signals that travel between the gut and the brain. Changes in gut bacteria might also increase the production of certain substances in the intestines that could affect brain health over time.
Constipation itself is also common in older adults, who are already at a higher risk of dementia. This means that both constipation and laxative use often occur in the same age group. Because of this overlap, scientists are interested in learning more about how digestive health and brain health may be connected.
Although the results of this study raise concerns, experts emphasize that laxatives can still be useful when used correctly and for short periods of time. People who need them occasionally should not panic. However, those who rely on laxatives frequently may want to talk with a healthcare professional to explore safer long‑term solutions.
In many cases, constipation can be managed through lifestyle changes. Eating foods rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help improve bowel movements. Drinking enough water keeps the digestive system moving smoothly. Regular physical activity also supports healthy digestion and overall health.
Scientists are continuing to study how the gut and brain influence each other. As this research grows, it may help doctors better understand how everyday habits and medications affect long‑term brain health. The findings from this study highlight the importance of using medications carefully and paying attention to overall lifestyle habits.
The study, led by researcher Feng Sha and published in Neurology, provides new insight into the possible relationship between digestive treatments and brain health. While more research is needed, the results remind us that even common medicines may have broader effects on the body than we once believed.
If you care about dementia, please read studies about dietary strategies to ward off dementia, and how omega-3 fatty acids fuel your mind.
For more health information, please see recent studies about Choline deficiency linked to Alzheimer’s disease, and what to eat (and avoid) for dementia prevention.
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